Andrew Frank Wise, always known as “Andy,” passed award suddenly, though peacefully, on March 30, 2024, in the arms of his wife and children. Always full of life and young at heart, Andy was 80 years old.
Andy was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Kate Wise, and his beloved grandson, Jake Andrew Wise, whose hand he now holds in Heaven.
Andy is survived by Janice, his wife of 53 years, his son, Andy Wise and wife, Chrissy, and his daughter, Wendy, and husband, Mike Fujka. Andy’s greatest joy since their births has been his adored granddaughter, June Kathryn Wise, who named him “Gumpa” and his treasured grandson and “mini-me,” Charles (Charlie) Andrew Fujka. He is also survived by three sisters, Judy Wink, Susan Chriss and Terry Kesecker, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.
He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1967, where he met his wife, Janice. Andy earned a degree in business and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army at that time. He served with honor and was a decorated Vietnam War veteran and helicopter pilot, receiving, among other honors, two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Following his military service, Andy became a stockbroker but eventually returned to flying. He was a commercial helicopter pilot, doing seismic work around the world, flying for Flight for Life, and working fire suppression contracts in California. He loved flying and amazingly survived four serious crashes.
Andy learned to love the sport of skiing while living in Germany. When his son competed in freestyle skiing, Andy began a 35 year commitment to the sport, not only championing the next generation but also working alongside the top athletes in the world. He traveled the U.S. and the world serving as a Technical Delegate for over 50 events, as well as serving on countless boards and committees.
While Andy had many interests, his greatest and most enduring love was for his family. He and Janice, the love of his life, were married in 1970, and began a life filled with love. They moved to Denver in 1974 where they raised two amzing children, Andy and Wendy.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Andy’s life and faith took place at Wellshire Presbyterian Church in Denver, where he has been a member for over 40 years, on April 12 at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Ft. Logan National Cemetery in early summer.
In place of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to Denver Hospice, please specify Footprints Children’s Services, in memory of Andy’s cherished grandson, Jake Wise.
